Broke

Acting was great, story was interesting and held my attention for the whole movie. I wasnt really looking for drama but it wound up being worth it in the end. This story has a western feel with the music and scenery showcasing what could be real life without any underlying messaging that would not have fit the characters like so many movies try to do today. So many movies lose me when something or someone is introduced because the writers or directors want to make a social statement that doesn't fit the storyline. This movie doesn't have any of that and is just pure entertainment with a stellar performance by all the main characters. Seems like my boy Danger Dave may have been an uncredited rodeo clown in this movie.

Carlyle Eubank's "Broke" centers on True Brandywine (Wyatt Russell), a bareback bronc rider grappling with the twilight of his rodeo career. The film immediately immerses the viewer in True's solitary struggle against a sudden and brutal spring blizzard. Trapped by the unforgiving elements, True must confront not only the immediate threats to his physical well-being but also the underlying circumstances that have led him to this precarious and isolated existence. The narrative subtly suggests a deeper story of past choices and present consequences, hinting at an internal reckoning that unfolds alongside his desperate fight for survival.

Wyatt Russell delivers a compellingly physical and emotionally raw performance as True. He embodies the weathered resilience of a seasoned rodeo athlete pushed to his absolute limits by the harsh environment. His portrayal captures both the outward grit required to battle the storm and the inward vulnerability of a man facing his own mortality and regrets. While Dennis Quaid's presence adds a layer of seasoned gravitas to the film, the core of the narrative rests firmly on Russell's ability to convey the protagonist's isolation and his internal battle for survival and self-reflection.

Comparing Russell's acting style to the veteran Dennis Quaid reveals distinct approaches. Quaid often brings a certain confident energy and seasoned presence to his roles. Russell, particularly in this isolated survival scenario, leans into a more grounded and emotionally exposed portrayal, allowing the audience to witness the character's internal struggle and physical deterioration.

Considering Wyatt Russell's work in relation to his father, Kurt Russell, reveals both shared intensity and individual nuance. While Kurt often imbues his characters with a charismatic and sometimes larger-than-life quality, Wyatt frequently opts for a more introspective and emotionally vulnerable approach. In "Broke," this translates to a portrayal of True that emphasizes his quiet resilience and the internal battle he wages alongside the external one. This nuanced depiction of a man confronting his past while fighting for his life showcases Wyatt's distinct talent for conveying complex emotions through subtle yet powerful means.

Ultimately, "Broke" is a stark and intense character study set against the unforgiving backdrop of a natural disaster. Anchored by a compelling performance from Wyatt Russell, the film delves into themes of survival, resilience, and the arduous process of self-confrontation. It promises to be a raw and emotionally resonant cinematic experience, focusing on one man's desperate fight against the elements and the internal reckoning that accompanies such extreme isolation.

I think I will need to watch this movie again to unpack everything. Really good film for anyone to enjoy, fans of Westerns and also anyone who wants to watch something great. On its surface it is a beautiful movie about a cowboy struggling to find his new purpose in life, but there is so much more to it. There are multiple timelines and I wont spoil anything but I was very invested. I really enjoyed watching, the acting was top notch and every moment beautiful. The soundtrack was unbelievably good. I loved the ending and think it has such a good message about overcoming obstacles. I think this is Carlyle Eubank's directing debut - unreal! I look forward to seeing more from this director and will be looking for the next thing from him.

We liked this movie. We liked the characters. We liked the actors. We love Rodeo and and the cinematography was great. All That said ... it just drug.

Perhaps it was the directing we don't know. We did feel the emotions, even cried, and loved Ali for True. The ending suggests his "growing up" through the experience... but didn't sell it. Some how I really wanted it to be so good. But, I'd have to recommend it with caveats.

The story is simple, knowing its limits and never exceeding them. The actors are all great, the music is great, the scenery excellent. For a modern western, it fares much better than anything else I have watched.

Also, Russell proves himself to have calibre as an actor, knowing how to use his physique and looks, and even his eyes work perfectly to express emotion and thinking without having to overdo it. The female lead was great, as was the brother. The big stars of the film, Quaid and McDonald were fine, but nothing too much. What stands out though, even more than the beautiful scenery, is the script. A good, honest story. Will be looking for this director's next film.